On June 12th, a key meeting was held between representatives of the Continental Fishing Directorate, the Chubut Fishing Guides Association, and representatives from the Public Prosecutor’s Office, with the aim of analyzing environmental infractions related to illegal fishing in provincial bodies of water.
During the meeting, Prosecutor Cecilia Bagnato and Environmental Protection Technician María Inés Vassallo inquired about the modalities, locations, and purposes of illegal activities, as well as their impact on aquatic ecosystems.
One of the main concerns is the illegal extraction of brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) —a protected species— during its spawning period, and in volumes aimed at unauthorized commercialization. This practice, reported by sector representatives, has been detected in streams in the Corcovado and Río Pico area.
The Environmental Crimes team of the Prosecutor’s Office announced that they will move forward with the corresponding criminal investigations once the complaints are formalized.
Brook trout: an emblematic species suffering from illegal fishing
Although not native to Argentina, the brook trout —known as brook trout— has successfully adapted to the cold, oxygenated environments of the Patagonian rivers and lakes, becoming an icon of sport fishing in Chubut.
Its protected status implies:
- Restrictions by season and area, especially during spawning periods.
- Regulation of catch quantities and sizes.
- Monitoring to prevent impacts on native species.
Brook trout also represents a tourism asset for the region, so its preservation is essential from both an ecological and socioeconomic perspective.
Progress towards regulated and sustainable sport fishing
Environmental and judicial authorities seek to strengthen traceability and control over recreational and commercial fishing activities, promoting:
- Good practices among guides and tour operators.
- Increased citizen participation in reporting infractions.
- Effective protection of aquatic ecosystems and their key species.
Featured Image: Weekend
